PUMPS | REMOTE MONITORING intelligent software platforms can also be harnessed for phased HVAC upgrade programmes to improve the performance of the system from the early stages of planning and design, and well before full implementation of new systems. By installing replacement smart pumps as part of the first phase of an upgrade project that is, before the usual data-analysis phase and typical discussions about technology solutions and business plan the systems can collect the detailed and accurate data required for designing the new system. As well as informing the design of the new system, building owners and occupiers can start saving energy and operational costs from the beginning of the project. Building and load-specific information can be obtained via the pump software to identify opportunities for system optimisation with high cost/benefit ratios. This can assist product selection for the upgrade project, while measurable energy savings generated in real time by the monitoring and reporting solution can help demonstrate the business case for upgrade decisions to stakeholders within an organisation. Armstrong claims bringing forward pump-replacement works in the first phase of an upgrade project and installing pumps with advanced performance-management software allows up to 10% of the system energy to be saved ahead of full implementation. The smart pumps can be selected against the actual installed conditions, and the system recommissioned at the point originally intended by the system designer following a process of opening the system regulating valves and making use of the onboard variable frequency drive to fine-tune the performance of each pump. For instance, over a six-month period, the embedded software in the pumps would measure pump flow, head and power consumption, and the data used in conjunction with system temperatures to generate a system-specific load profile. This can then be employed to assist the system designer/client with the selection of main plant equipment and to determine the optimum system modifications that allow for the most cost-effective and energy-efficient system solutions. CJ La Ronda chocolate factory in Dubai uses intelligent control with its pumps SWEET SAVINGS Armstrong Fluid Technologys Design Envelope pump technology was used for the cooling system energy upgrade at the La Ronda chocolate factory in the Dubai Investment Park, Dubai, UAE. The project employed end suction pumps with integrated intelligent sensorless control that included integrated inverters. Each pump has a split coupling, which enables all mechanical seal components to be withdrawn for servicing without the need to disturb other pump components or the motor connection. The pumps at La Ronda are connected to a proprietary global pump management database, allowing the pump manufacturer to support the local team through performance tracking and alerts to any smart device. The information provided enables operators to make changes and address issues to optimise HVAC performance. Online trending and analysis across multiple parameters on single pumps, or on an aggregated basis for multiple pumps, assists in identifying performance degradation and facilitates a predictive and proactive approach. According to Armstrong, in the three-month period after installation, the plant saved 118,355kWh of energy, for a cost reduction of US$14,633 (10,708). The installation of the pump solution paid for itself in just seven months, achieving energy cost savings of 90% within 90 days. 60 October 2021 www.cibsejournal.com CIBSE Oct21 pp59-60 Pump peformance.indd 60 24/09/2021 15:29